Patrycja Krzyśpiak, an expert on Chinese information operations at Poland’s NASK research institute, told the PAP news agency that the issue went beyond the potential security risks of the glasses.
She said China’s portrayal of itself as technologically advanced, alongside claims that the European Union is falling behind, could help undermine Western democracies and make Chinese authoritarianism appear more attractive.
"Everyone, regardless of their social position, should understand how this technology works and pay attention to its country of origin," she added.
The glasses used by MP Jarosław Sachajko, a member of the opposition Direct Democracy parliamentary group, display text in the wearer’s field of vision, allowing him to read prepared statements in parliament.
Users can scroll through the text with a special ring.
Experts have identified the device as the "Even Realities G2," a Chinese-made model.
The glasses also attracted attention among MPs.
Witold Zembaczyński, a member of the ruling Civic Coalition (KO), posted a photograph of Sachajko speaking from the parliamentary rostrum, pointing to a greenish glow visible on the lenses.
Online discussions raised concerns that the glasses could pose an information security risk.
Sachajko dismissed the espionage concerns, saying he would take them seriously if the government directly warned him of a threat.
Krzyśpiak said China’s promotion of technological advances could reinforce the perception that the country is modern and innovative while Europe is outdated and falling behind.
"Pro-Chinese and pro-Russian channels use these narratives to weaken Western democracies and indirectly promote Chinese authoritarianism," she said.
She added that the aim was not to target products coming from China, but to raise awareness of how technology can be used in propaganda.
(ał/gs)
Source: PAP